The Massachusetts Education Reform Act of 1993 (MGL Ch. 71) calls for dramatic changes in public
education over a seven-year period. Among the major improvements are greater and
more equitable funding to schools, accountability for student learning, and
statewide standards for students, educators, schools and districts. Major
changes in accountability brought about by the Education Reform Act include: a
school council in every school, continuing education for educators, more
authority for every principal, better defined roles for school committees, and
clear, concise, measurable statewide standards for students and schools. The
capstone will be a "high-stakes" test based on the new curriculum
standards. Every student will need to pass the new test in order to receive a
diploma.